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Factories -- Fiction Books
Best books
Robert Barr
The Mutable Many: A Novel
"The Mutable Many: A Novel" by Robert Barr is a work of fiction written in the late 19th century. The narrative centers around John Sartwell, the stern manager of a factory in London, who faces mounting tensions with his workers amidst a looming strike. As the story unfolds, Sartwell's complex relationships with his superiors and his daughter, Edna, become key focal points in exploring themes of class conflict and personal ambition. The opening of the novel establishes the industrial setting and introduces the reader to Sartwell's position within the company and society. He observes a troubling sense of discontent among the workers, who are contemplating a strike to demand better conditions and wages. A young worker, Marsten, discusses the strike's inevitability with Sartwell, revealing the young man's aspirations and the tension between personal morality and collective action. As Sartwell navigates the intricacies of the workplace dynamics and his protective instincts towards Edna, the story hints at potential conflicts that will explore broader social themes, particularly the struggles faced by laborers and those in managerial positions.
V. (Victoria) Sackville-West
The Dragon in Shallow Waters
"The Dragon in Shallow Waters" by V. Sackville-West is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative unfolds in a factory setting and introduces us to the lives of Silas and Gregory Dene, two brothers marked by physical disabilities: Silas is blind, and Gregory is deaf and mute. The story delves into themes of tragedy, isolation, and societal contempt, capturing the oppressive atmosphere of their lives and the impact of personal loss within a harsh industrial environment. The opening of the novel establishes a vivid and grim factory scene, highlighting the relentless machinery and the imposing structure that dwarfs the men who work within it. We are introduced to the Dene brothers shortly after the death of Silas's wife, Hannah, whose death contributes to a pervasive sense of grief and upheaval. Silas exhibits a mix of indifference and manic humor as he discusses the circumstances surrounding her death, hinting at deeper emotional layers and resentments. This balance of bleakness and strained camaraderie among the characters underlines the novel's exploration of human suffering and the complex nature of relationships in the face of adversity.
Wallace West
The belt
"The Belt" by Wallace West is a science fiction novel written in the early to mid-20th century. Set on a fictional Caribbean island known as New Patmos, the book explores themes of social experimentation and the consequences of dehumanization through labor. The narrative delves into a family's generational struggle with a curse tied to their exploitation of convict labor and the resulting loss of humanity. The story follows Jonathan Robertson, who returns to New Patmos after his father’s death to claim his inheritance. Upon arrival, he discovers a grim reality: the descendants of convicts have been reduced to robotic laborers in a factory that processes Lapis Lazuli. As Jonathan grapples with the oppressive legacy of his ancestors, he attempts to liberate the workers and awaken their humanity. Despite his efforts, he is met with resistance and learns that the generation of workers has become so conditioned to their servitude that they cannot comprehend freedom. The tragic tale unfolds as Jonathan's attempts to effect change lead to devastating consequences, including the death of a young worker named Jo, which ultimately prompts Jonathan's realization of the depth of the curse that has gripped the island.
George O. (George Oliver) Smith
Blind Time
"Blind Time" by George O. Smith is a science fiction novel written in the mid-20th century. The story revolves around the concept of temporal accidents, where events are predicted to occur based on prior occurrences in time, leading to a paradoxical situation where the future can be foreseen but not averted. The book explores themes of fate, human nature, and the peculiarities of temporal mechanics through the eyes of Peter Wright, an insurance adjuster tasked with navigating this complex, mind-bending situation. The narrative follows Peter Wright as he is assigned to investigate an imminent accident at the Oak Tool Works, which has already occurred in a temporal sense. Despite the certainty of the accident’s occurrence, the workers and Peter must contend with the surreal implications of this knowledge, grappling with feelings of dread and inevitability. Through vivid interactions with the factory staff, Peter learns about the so-called 'mislinks'—missing pieces of machinery that exist in a time field. The story culminates in a dramatic sequence where Peter finds himself caught in the accident he aimed to assess, highlighting the futility of trying to change what has already been decreed by time. The novel challenges readers to consider the intersections of time, choice, and human response in the face of seemingly predestined events.
Ray Cummings
The Big Idea
"The Big Idea" by Ray Cummings is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Jimmy Rand, a coal miner who dreams of making a significant impact beyond the confines of the mine. As Jimmy grapples with his aspirations amid the monotony and dangers of his mining job, he stumbles upon an innovative idea that could revolutionize how coal is utilized, setting the stage for his journey toward achieving fame and wealth. The opening of this novel introduces us to Jimmy Rand, a 22-year-old miner who feels trapped in his hereditary profession despite his physical prowess. While waiting to check in for work, Jimmy's thoughts drift to his dreams of achieving greatness with the support of his girlfriend Anne. His creative spark ignites when he observes the burning coal underground and considers the possibility of utilizing that heat directly, rather than mining the coal. This idea fills him with determination, and he resolves to pursue it with fervor, believing it could change both their lives. The chapter sets up a contrast between Jimmy's humble beginnings and his ambition, hinting at the challenges and opportunities he will face in the coming narrative.
Margaret E. Winslow
Katie Robertson : $b A girls story of factory life
"Katie Robertson: A Girl's Story of Factory Life" by Margaret E. Winslow is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book centers around a young girl named Katie Robertson, who takes on the responsibility of contributing to her family's income by working at the local paper mill. Through her experiences, it explores themes of independence, the virtues of hard work, and the moral dilemmas that come with earning a living at a young age. At the start of the story, Katie's mother expresses concern over her daughter's decision to work in the factory, fearing for her safety and well-being. Despite her mother's hesitations, Katie remains determined, viewing the opportunity as a step toward independence and a way to support her family. The narrative highlights Katie's initial excitement and naivety about factory life, her interactions with family members, and her earnest desire to contribute, setting the stage for the challenges she will face as she balances her youthful optimism with the realities of labor and financial responsibility.
George Weston
Mary Minds Her Business
"Mary Minds Her Business" by George Weston is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story commences with a rich familial history, focusing on the Spencer family, detailing their industrious legacy, and ultimately establishing the context for the central character, Mary Spencer. The novel explores themes of tradition, femininity, and generational expectations, as it follows Mary, whose upbringing under the guidance of her two maiden aunts shapes her identity and aspirations. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to the illustrious lineage of the Spencer family, particularly through the various successful men who have led the family's business, the Quinebaug Wagon Works. The narrative unfolds upon the introduction of Mary, the last descendant, focusing on her complex family dynamics following her father's return from a tumultuous past. The opening chapters weave together the past and present, showing Mary's evolution as she contemplates her own future and societal roles through her relationships with her aunts, her father Josiah, and budding friendships in her community. This sets up an engaging narrative about her quest for identity, independence, and the challenges posed by her family’s legacy.
Mikko Tervas
Koneiden ääressä: Romaani
"Koneiden ääressä: Romaani" by Mikko Tervas is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story portrays the lives of a rural family as they transition from their farm life to the complexities of living in a growing urban environment. Central characters include Jaakko, Anna-Kaisa, and their children, who grapple with the challenges of change, dreams, and emotional ties as they navigate a new landscape filled with both hope and uncertainty. The opening of the novel introduces us to the Niemelä family living in a humble torppa (farm cottage) amid the harsh winter elements. We witness Anna-Kaisa’s concerns for her family as they prepare for the day and await the return of Jaakko, who has gone to gather hay. The warmth of their home contrasts with the coldness outside, illustrating the challenges of rural life. Soon, we learn that Jaakko has received news that they must leave their home, stirring emotions of nostalgia and fear about the uncertainty that lies ahead. With discussions of moving to the city, the family faces the upheaval that comes with leaving behind their familiar life and the bittersweet memories attached to their home.
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